David Ornstein reveals what’s to blame for Arsenal not making a huge splash

If you’re wondering why Arsenal haven’t made a statement signing this summer — one of those €80-100 million, guaranteed-upgrade, title-winning moves — you don’t need to look far. David Ornstein of The Athletic has provided the answer on The Athletic FC Podcast: Gabriel Martinelli.

“Arsenal always wanted to strengthen on the left-wing, but they’ve got Gabriel Martinelli there,” Ornstein said. “If he was to leave, then you could see them bringing in a top left-sided winger. If he’s NOT to leave, I don’t think so.”

And that, right there, is the problem. Arsenal have a clear plan, a world-class coach, elite infrastructure, and the pull to sign anyone they want — but they are blocked at a key attacking position because of one underperforming player whose stock is far higher than his output.

Martinelli is the reason Arsenal aren’t going big

Martinelli has been one of Arsenal’s brightest academy success stories of the past five years, and fans love his explosiveness, work rate, and commitment to the badge. But as Ornstein’s comments imply, Arsenal’s unwillingness to move on from Martinelli is holding them back.

At 24 years old, he’s no longer a prospect — he’s a finished product. And that product simply hasn’t delivered enough. His finishing is inconsistent. His decision-making in the final third is flawed. He doesn’t link play or create at the level Arsenal need from a modern wide forward.

This is a team trying to win the Champions League. A team that has finished second in the Premier League three seasons in a row because they lack the firepower to kill games. Sticking with a player like Martinelli out of loyalty, hope, or inertia is not how titles are won.

Rodrygo or Anthony Gordon would be upgrades — and possible

Ornstein name-dropped Rodrygo Goes and Anthony Gordon, two top-level left wingers who have been discussed internally. That alone says a lot. Arsenal know they can do better.

Rodrygo, in particular, would be a seismic addition. At just 24 years old, the Real Madrid star is already a Champions League winner, a cold-blooded finisher, and a complete, intelligent attacker. He can operate on either wing, drop into central areas, and offers far more consistency and technical quality than Martinelli.

And here’s the kicker: Rodrygo might even be cheaper than Martinelli in this market. With Al-Nassr reportedly offering €85 million for Martinelli, Arsenal could theoretically cash in and use that to bring in a better player who wants to be at the very top.

Arsenal’s ambition can’t afford sentiment

What Ornstein makes clear is that Arsenal’s reluctance to part ways with Martinelli is the reason they’re not making a massive attacking upgrade. They’re not lacking ambition. They’re just stuck between protecting a long-term asset and going all-in on winning now.

At some point, the club has to choose. Loyalty to a hard-working player is admirable. But if Arsenal want to stop finishing second, they need to be brutal. That €85 million offer from Al-Nassr isn’t just good business — it’s a lifeline. One that could fund a generational winger like Rodrygo.

The window is open. The options are there. Arsenal just need to get out of their own way.